Cementitious building block with interconnecting features

ABSTRACT

A block is disclosed that includes a top surface, a bottom surface, a pair of sidewalls, and a pair of endwalls. The block also includes a projection that protrudes beyond the top surface along a first axis and is symmetrical along a second axis and a third axis. The block also includes a recess that extends into the bottom surface along the first axis and is symmetrical along the second axis and the third axis. The block also includes a pair of trenches including a first trench and a second trench that are respectively defined by a recess extending into an endwall of the pair of endwalls. The pair of trenches both run along the first axis from a surface of the projection to a surface of the recess, and a first width of the first trench overlaps with a second width of the second trench along the third axis.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/890,368, filed Aug. 22, 2019, entitled “Acementitious building block with interconnecting features” (Atty. DocketNo. 533323711), the contents of which are herein incorporated in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional concrete masonry block construction typically usesrectangular blocks. To construct a wall, a layer of mortar is appliedonto a foundation, and a course of closely spaced blocks are laid on thelayer, with additional mortar applied between the contiguous block ends.Another layer of mortar is applied to the top of the first course, andadditional courses are similarly laid, generally staggering the blockends from course to course. This method of constructing a wall requiresa high level of skill to perform, and costs are often high. While sometechniques have been proposed to construct a wall with an assembly ofblocks without prepared mortar beds, it can be difficult to ensureadequate insulation and structural support for the wall using thesetechniques.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One general aspect includes a block for use in mortarless wallconstruction. The block also includes a top surface and a bottom surfacethat are parallel to one another. The block also includes a projectionthat protrudes beyond the top surface along a first axis and issymmetrical along a second axis and a third axis. The block alsoincludes a recess that extends into the bottom surface along the firstaxis and also is symmetrical along the second axis and the third axis.The block also includes a pair of sidewalls including a first sidewalland a second sidewall that are parallel to one another, where the pairof sidewalls are connected by the top surface and bottom surface, wherethe pair of sidewalls have end edges generally perpendicular to the topsurface and the bottom surface, and where the pair of sidewallsrespectively have a first length. The block also includes a pair ofendwalls including a first endwall and a second endwall that areparallel to one another, where the pair of endwalls are connected by thetop surface and the bottom surface, where the pair of endwalls aretransverse and joined to the pair of sidewalls, and where the pair ofendwalls respectively have a second length that is substantially halfthe first length. The block also includes a first trench that is definedby a second recess extending into the first endwall, where the firsttrench runs along the first axis from a surface of the projection to asurface of the recess, and where a first width of the first trench isdefined by a start point and an end point along the third axis. Theblock also includes a second trench that is defined by a second recessextending into the second endwall, where the second trench runs from asurface of the projection to the surface of the recess, and where asecond width of the second trench is defined by a start point and endpoint along the third axis, where the start point of the second widthexists between the start point and the end point of the first widthalong the third axis. The block also includes a void that is defined inpart by a passage through the block that runs from a surface of theprojection to a surface of the recess along the first axis, where thevoid exists between the first trench and the second trench along thesecond axis, where a third width of the void is defined by a start pointand an end point along the third axis, and where the start point of thethird width exists between respective endpoints of the first width andthe second width so that the third width overlaps with both the firstwidth and the second width along the third axis.

One general aspect includes a block. The block also includes a topsurface and a bottom surface that are parallel to one another. The blockalso includes a projection that protrudes beyond the top surface along afirst axis. The block also includes a recess that extends into thebottom surface along the first axis. The block also includes a pair ofsidewalls including a first sidewall and a second sidewall that areparallel to one another, where the pair of sidewalls are connected bythe top surface and bottom surface, and where the pair of sidewalls haveend edges generally perpendicular to the top surface and the bottomsurface. The block also includes a pair of endwalls including a firstendwall and a second endwall that are parallel to one another, where thepair of endwalls are connected by the top surface and the bottomsurface, and where the pair of endwalls are transverse and joined to thepair of sidewalls. The block also includes a first trench that isdefined by a second recess extending into the first endwall, where thefirst trench runs along the first axis from a surface of the projectionto a surface of the recess, and where a first width of the first trenchis defined by a start point and an end point along a second axis. Theblock also includes a second trench that is defined by a second recessextending into the second endwall, where the second trench runs from asurface of the projection to the surface of the recess, and where asecond width of the second trench is defined by a start point and endpoint along the second axis, where the start point of the second widthexists between the start point and the end point of the first widthalong the second axis. The block also includes a void that is defined inpart by a passage through the block that runs from a surface of theprojection to a surface of the recess along the first axis, where thevoid exists between the first trench and the second trench along a thirdaxis, where a third width of the void is defined by a start point and anend point along the second axis, and where the start point of the thirdwidth exists between respective endpoints of the first width and thesecond width so that the third width overlaps with both the first widthand the second width along the second axis.

One general aspect includes a block. The block also includes a topsurface and a bottom surface that are parallel to one another. The blockalso includes a projection that protrudes beyond the top surface along afirst axis and is symmetrical along a second axis and a third axis. Theblock also includes a recess that extends into the bottom surface alongthe first axis and also is symmetrical along the second axis and thethird axis. The block also includes a pair of sidewalls including afirst sidewall and a second sidewall that are parallel to one another,where the pair of sidewalls are connected by the top surface and bottomsurface, where the pair of sidewalls have end edges generallyperpendicular to the top surface and the bottom surface, and where thepair of sidewalls respectively have a first length. The block alsoincludes a pair of endwalls including a first endwall and a secondendwall that are parallel to one another, where the pair of endwalls areconnected by the top surface and the bottom surface, where the pair ofendwalls are transverse and joined to the pair of sidewalls, and wherethe pair of endwalls respectively have a second length that issubstantially half the first length. The block also includes a pair oftrenches including a first trench and a second trench that arerespectively defined by a recess extending into an endwall of the pairof endwalls, where the pair of trenches both run along the first axisfrom a surface of the projection to a surface of the recess, and where afirst width of the first trench overlaps with a second width of thesecond trench along the third axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates cross-sectional views of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a blockassembly, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of interconnecting block types, accordingto some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of interconnecting blocks in a blockassembly, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example of interconnecting blocks in a blockassembly, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sidewall view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates another sidewall view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates an endwall view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates another endwall view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top surface view of a block, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom surface view of a block, according to someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, various examples will be described. Forpurposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are setforth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the examples.However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that theexamples may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore,well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscurethe example being described.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide one or more blockconfigurations for respective block types that are utilizable forassembly in a building block system. In one example, a blockconfiguration may specify one or more interconnecting features of ablock, whereby the interconnecting features enable the block to be usedfor more efficient construction a building block system (e.g., amortarless wall assembly) than conventional methods. In someembodiments, an interconnecting feature of a block may correspond to anyfeature of the block that enables the block to be interconnected withanother block of a same or different block type. In an example, aninterconnecting feature may correspond to a projection and/or recess ofa block that enables the block to “fit” (e.g., mate, or otherwise lock)together with another block, so as to restrict substantial movement ofthe blocks relative to each other (e.g., restricting relative movementto a fraction (e.g., 1/16) of an inch). In another example, aninterconnecting feature may correspond to a trench and/or void of theblock. When a projection of the block is mated with a recess of anotherblock, a trench and/or void of the block may be positionally anddimensionally aligned with a trench and/or void of another block, so asto form a continuous passage between the two blocks. The continuouspassage may be configured to receive concrete materials (e.g.,cementitious grout, reinforcing rods, etc.) that lock the blocks intopermanent positions. In at least this way, a trench and/or void of ablock may also facilitate interconnection with other blocks within theblock assembly.

Upon completion of mating multiple blocks together to create a stackedblock assembly (e.g., a wall assembly) that includes multiple continuouspassages, each of these continuous passages may be extended from a lowerportion (e.g., a base surface) to an upper portion (e.g., a top surface)of the wall assembly. As described above, the continuous passages maysubsequently receive concrete materials that further lock the blocks ofthe wall assembly into permanent positions and provide insulationsupport. In at least this way, and, continuing with the mortarless wallassembly example, the interconnecting features the blocks may enable themortarless wall assembly to be constructed without prepared mortar bedsat the seat and head joints of the blocks during an initial erection ofthe wall assembly. The interconnecting features of the blocks may alsoenable an efficient mechanism for fixing components into place after thewall erection, and for efficiently insulating the wall to protectagainst various elements (e.g., fire penetration, water migration,insect migration, and other natural element migrations).

As described above, in some embodiments, a plurality of block types mayexist. Depending on a position of a particular block relative to otherblocks of a particular building block system (e.g., a wall assembly), aparticular block type may be used for the particular block at thatposition. For example, one type of block may be a “full-length” block,while another type of block may be a “half-length” block. In someembodiments, the full-length block may be substantially twice the lengthof the half-length block. In some embodiments, the full-length block maycontain a plurality (e.g., two, four, etc.) of projections and acorresponding plurality of recesses. In some embodiments, theprojections and recesses may be respectively connected together at aninterconnection location. For example, in one embodiment, a full-lengthblock may include two cross-shaped (e.g., cross-keyed) projections thatinterconnect (e.g., and respectively protrude beyond a top surface), andtwo cross-shaped recesses on a bottom surface that also interconnect(e.g., and respectively extend into the bottom surface). In thisembodiment, the corresponding half-length block may include only onecross-shaped projection. As described further herein, the full-lengthblock may also differ from the half-length block in terms of the typeand/or number of other interconnecting features.

Within both the half-length and full-length block type categories,respectively, there may be at least four different sub-types of blocks:(1) a standard block that includes at least one projection thatprotrudes beyond a top surface of the block, and at least one recessthat extends into a bottom surface of the block, (2) a flat-top blockwith a recessed bottom, (3) a U-shaped block having a U-shaped contourwith a recessed bottom, and (4) a flat-bottom block with a projectionthat protrudes beyond the top surface of the block. It should beunderstood that any suitable type of block and/or arrangement of blocktypes may be utilized to perform embodiments of the present disclosure.

As described above, a block of a particular type may interconnect withone or more other blocks (e.g., of a same or different type) within aparticular building block system based on one or more interconnectingfeatures of each block type. The type of interconnection may depend inpart on the requirements of the particular building block system. Forexample, consider a horizontally stacked assembly that runs linearly(e.g., as a wall assembly). A base course of the wall assembly maycorrespond to a horizontal layer of flat-bottom blocks. Above the basecourse of flat-bottom blocks, a second course (e.g., an intermediatecourse) of standard blocks may be horizontally stacked (e.g., mated)with the base course, whereby projections that protrude from theflat-bottom blocks interconnect with recesses extending into bottomsurfaces of the standard blocks. A series of intermediate courses (e.g.,a third course, a fourth course, etc.) may be stacked similarly to thesecond course, using the standard type of block. In some embodiments, atthe top of the wall assembly, a top course of flat-top blocks withrecessed bottoms may be interconnected with projections of anintermediate course of blocks (e.g., the highest intermediate coursebefore reaching the top course). In some embodiments, the top course offlat-top blocks allows for a uniform flat surface on which to place astructural cast-in-place beam (e.g., a concrete beam, or a beamincluding other materials). In some embodiments, at the top of the wallassembly, instead of flat-top blocks, a top course of U-shaped blockswith recessed bottoms may be used. The top cavity of the U-shaped blocksmay receive cast-in-place concrete materials and/or reinforcements,thereby enabling a structural cast-in-place bond beam to be formed, asdescribed further herein.

In some embodiments, the courses of the wall assembly may be placed in arunning bond method of placement, whereby individual blocks in a courseof blocks overlap with individual blocks that are adjacent (e.g., inanother course of blocks above and/or below the course of blocks). Forexample, an endwall of a particular block in an intermediate course mayinterconnect with a lower block (e.g., of another lower intermediatecourse) at the midpoint of the lower block (e.g., half the length of thelower block). In this example, a half-length block of each type (e.g.,one of the four sub-types described above) may be placed as an end block(and/or intermediate block) of one or more courses, thereby enabling therunning bond placement method from the base to the top of the wallassembly.

In another embodiment, a building block system may include a wallintersection, whereby two linearly stacked assemblies (e.g., two wallassemblies) connect (e.g., at a ninety degree intersection). Asdescribed further herein, interconnecting features of one or more of theblock types may further allow courses of blocks to interconnect at thewall intersection. For example, in some embodiments, a first standardblock may include two cross-shaped projections and two correspondingcross-shaped recesses, as described above. A first cross-shaped recessof the first standard block may be mated with a cross-shaped projectionof a second standard block (of the same type as the first standardblock), whereby the first standard block is transversely stacked on topof the second standard block at the wall intersection. A secondcross-shaped recess of the first standard block may also be mated with across-shaped projection of a third standard block that is part of thesame linearly stacked assembly as the first standard block. Note that,in this example, blocks of the same type (or different type) may beinterconnected in either a linearly stacked assembly (e.g., componentsof a linear wall) or a transversely stacked assembly (e.g., at a ninetydegree wall intersection), depending on the blocks' positions within thebuilding block system. In some embodiments, this interconnectivecapacity of the blocks (e.g., enabling the block to interconnect atninety degree turns as well as in a linear interconnection) may beenabled based in part on the projections and recesses of the block,respectively, being symmetrical along both a first axis and a secondaxis (e.g., being symmetrical in four quadrants of a two-dimensionalplane that is parallel to the ground).

In yet another embodiment, a double wall assembly may be formed, forexample, by placing two courses of blocks (e.g., standard blocks)adjacent to each other. Above the adjacent courses, standard blocks maybe placed above and transverse to the lower blocks, whereby the lowercourses of blocks interconnect with the upper blocks based in part onthe interconnecting features. It should be understood that any suitablearrangement of building block system may be assembled by utilizing blockconfigurations of blocks of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, and, as described further herein, upon an initialerection of a building block system (e.g., a wall assembly of abuilding), the building block system may be further reinforced and/orprotected (e.g., insulated) from elements (e.g., fire, water, heat,etc.) based in part on the interconnecting features of the blocks of thebuilding block system. For example, in a case where the blocks aremasonry blocks, head joints (e.g., a joints between the ends of masonryblocks) may be sealed based on trenches of adjacent endwalls of therespective blocks being aligned to form a void. For example, in a casewhere a trench corresponds to a half cylindrically-shaped recessextending into an endwall of a block, the two trenches of adjacentendwalls of respectively adjacent blocks may be aligned to form a fullcylindrically shaped void. When the full cylindrically shaped void isaligned with a void of another block stacked above or below therespectively adjacent blocks (e.g., and similarly, with respect to otherstacked blocks of the wall), a continuous passage may be formed from thebottom of the wall to the top of the wall. When the continuous passagereceives (e.g., is filled with) sealing material (e.g., cementitiousgrout), gaps between the blocks may be sealed. This sealing may protectthe building block system from the elements, while also fixing theblocks into place to prevent relative movement of the blocks. It shouldbe understood that any type and/or number of suitable passages may becreated based on interconnecting features of blocks described herein.For example, in one embodiment, at least two types of passages may existthroughout the building block system. As described above, one passagetype (e.g., which may be referred to as a “head joint columnar void” or“head joint full columnar void”) may receive cementitious grout, and mayprimarily serve to insulate the blocks from outside elements and topermanently fix the blocks in place.

Another passage type (e.g., which may be referred to as a “core columnarvoid”) may also be created based on interconnecting features of one ormore block types. The core columnar void may receive cast-in-placecement grout as well as reinforcing rods. In one embodiment, thereinforced concrete void fill may create a concrete column (e.g., withinthe core columnar void) that extends from the bottom of the wall to abond beam at the top of the wall. In this way, the concrete column mayenable the wall to be capable of bearing structural loads. In someembodiments, a cast-in-place concrete beam is placed at the top of thewall assembly and is connected to the wall by reinforcing rods extendingout of the grout-filled core columnar voids into the cast-in-place bondbeam plane. In some embodiments, a wall may be further reinforced byusing surface bonding cement that is applied at the exterior surfaces ofthe wall to add horizontal reinforcing to the wall assembly in the formof a planar membrane coating. This surface bonding cement may furtherprotect the wall fabric from exposure to natural environmental elements.

In some embodiments, a block may be formed using any suitable materialand/or method. For example, in one embodiment, the block may be made ofcementitious material such as cellular lightweight concrete (CLC). Thecellular lightweight concrete may be made from one or more types ofmaterial, including, but not limited to: lightweight aggregates, such asperlite, pumice, plastics, or pre-formed temporary foam bubbles madefrom protein emulsions or other synthetic foam agents. In someembodiments, the blocks may be made from pour casting a cementitiousmaterial into special form shapes or mold shapes. These shapes mayimpart distinct features onto and into the cementitious fabric that,when cured, maintain a permanent shape. In some embodiments, thecellular lightweight concrete material may be used based in part on thelightweight properties of the concrete and a selection of a low-strengthcured concrete material. The low compressive strength may enablelocalized yielding of the material fabric when encountering an incursion(such as a gravel or irregularity in the block horizontal bed joint).For example, the block material fabric may deform at an immediateincursion point and absorb or subsume an incursion element (e.g., agravel) into the block fabric without impairing the structural integrityof the block itself or the overall system. Accordingly, a block formedfrom cellular lightweight material may contrast with some concreteblocks that may otherwise break at a point of incursion (e.g., a teeterpoint) when under a gravity load. It should be understood that cellularlightweight concrete corresponds to an example type of material that maybe used to perform embodiments. However, embodiments of the presentdisclosure may be performed using any suitable material (e.g.,non-hydraulic cement, hydraulic cement, etc.).

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide several advantages oversome methods of assembling a building block system. For example, in thecase of some concrete masonry types of block systems, these blocksystems typically require the blocks to be laid in a prepared horizontalbed of mortar to bond individual courses together. A vertical bed ofmortar is also used to connect individual blocks within a horizontalcourse together at the time the blocks are being installed. This methodof installation requires significant skill and labor time to prepare andinstall mortar materials. In contrast, embodiments of the presentdisclosure enable blocks to be assembled without prepared mortar beds atthe seat and head joints of blocks during the initial erection. This ispossible at least in part because of the interconnecting features of theblocks, which enable the blocks to be interconnected (e.g., mated)without pre-preparing the mortar beds. Accordingly, this block systemmay be more efficiently assembled without requiring as much skill orlabor efforts as conventional methods. Also, as described herein, theinterconnecting features enable blocks to be interconnected so as torealize both linear interconnectivity and transverse interconnectivity.For example, a standard block may be used to linearly interconnect withone or more other blocks in a linearly stacked assembly. In thisexample, the same standard block may also be used to transverselyinterconnect with one or more other blocks in a transversely stackedassembly (e.g., at a ninety degree wall intersection). This may bepossible at least because the respective projections and recesses of thestandard block are symmetric along any two axes (e.g., in fourquadrants) of a plane (e.g., parallel to the ground).

Additionally, as described herein, the interconnecting features may alsoenable blocks of a building block assembly to be efficiently sealed andfirmly (e.g., permanently) locked in place. For example, following theassembly of interconnecting blocks to form wall assembly, block voidcavities (e.g., core columnar voids, head joint columnar voids) may beefficiently filled with cementitious material and/or reinforcing rods,depending on the type and/or location of the voids. Accordingly, thefilled cavities may permanently fix block components in position andclose migratory paths for fire penetration, water migration, insectmigration, and other natural element migrations.

Turning now to the figures, the diagram 100 of FIG. 1 illustrates twodifferent isometrics views, a first isometric view 100A and a secondisometric view 1006, of a standard block type (which may referred to asa “standard block”), according to some embodiments. The first isometricview 100A illustrates six sides of the standard block: a first endwall106, a second endwall 108, a first sidewall 110, a second sidewall 104,a top surface 102, and a bottom surface 112. The first isometric view100A illustrates three visible sides of the standard block: the secondendwall 108, the first sidewall 110, and the bottom surface 112. Also,the first isometric view 100A illustrates three sides that are notvisible in diagram 100: the first endwall 106 (that may be opposite thesecond endwall 108), the second sidewall 104 (that may be opposite thefirst sidewall 110), and the top surface 102 (that may be opposite thebottom surface 112). In some embodiments, the respective sidewalls,endwalls, and surfaces of the standard block (and/or other types ofblocks) may be parallel to one another.

Similar to the first isometric view 100A, the second isometric view 100Balso illustrates sides of the same standard block. In the secondisometric view 1006, three visible sides of the standard block areillustrated: the second endwall 108, the second sidewall 104, and thetop surface 102. Note that both isometric views 100A and 1006 providetwo different visible views of the second endwall 108 and the firstsidewall 110. Also, three non-visible sides of the second isometric view1006 include: the first endwall 106, the second sidewall 104, and thebottom surface 112.

For clarity of illustration, embodiments of different block types of thepresent disclosure may be described in reference to one or more axes (anX-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis) of a three-dimensional space 156 (e.g.,in the real world). For example, in the diagram 100 of FIG. 1, considera scenario in which the standard block that is illustrated by the secondisometric view 100B is resting on a base (e.g., ground) surface. In thisscenario, individual axes of the three-dimensional space 156 may belocated parallel to respective edges of the block. Accordingly, in oneexample, the second sidewall 104 may run along a first axis 150 (e.g., aZ-axis) from the top surface 102 (and/or from a projection that isprotruding from the top surface 102, described further below) of theblock to the bottom surface 112 (and/or recess extending into the bottomsurface 112) of the block. Also, within this frame of reference of thethree-dimensional space 156, the first sidewall 110 may run along asecond axis 152 (e.g., an X-axis) from the first endwall 106 to thesecond endwall 108. Also, the first endwall 106 may run from the firstsidewall 110 to the second sidewall 104 along a third axis 154. Itshould be understood that any suitable relative dimensional space (e.g.,relative placement of axes, the coordinate system and/or units ofmeasurement) may be used to describe embodiments herein.

Turning to the different sides of the block in further detail, in someembodiments, at least one recess may extend into the bottom surface 112.For example, two recesses are illustrated in the first isometric view100A as extending into the bottom surface 112. In the first isometricview 100A, each recess corresponds to a cross-shaped recess, includingboth a first cross-shaped recess 116 and a second cross-shaped recess117. In some embodiments, a shape of the recess (e.g., a cross shape, asquare shape, or other suitable polygonal shape) may be symmetricalalong two axes (e.g., within a three-dimensional space) so that aportion of the shape (e.g., the keyway array dimensions) in one quadrantof the of the two axes is symmetrical to respective portions of theshape in the other three quadrants. Using the example three-dimensionalspace 156 described above (e.g., with respect to the second isometricview 1006 of the block), the first cross-shaped recess 116 may extendinto the bottom surface 112 along the first axis 150, and may also besymmetrical along the second axis 152 and the third axis 154. In thisway, the same block may support realization of both linearinterconnectivity and transverse interconnectivity. For example, in oneembodiment the first cross-shaped recess 116 may linearly interconnect(e.g., mate) with a lower block in a horizontally stacked assembly(e.g., a wall), as described further below with respect to FIG. 3. Inanother embodiment, illustrated by FIG. 6, the first cross-shaped recess116 may interconnect with a lower block in a tranverse interconnection(e.g., a ninety degree wall turn, and/or a ninety degree wallintersection). In some embodiments, each of the recesses that extendinto the bottom surface 112 (e.g., both the first cross-shaped recess116 and the second cross-shaped recess 117) may support both linearinterconnectivity and transverse interconnectivity. In some embodiments,the one or more recesses may be interconnected at a recessinterconnection location. For example, continuing with the examplethree-dimensional space above, the two cross-shaped recesses 116 and 117may interconnect along the second axis 152 at a recess interconnectionlocation that corresponds to a void 118, described further below.

In some embodiments, at least one projection may protrude beyond the topsurface 102. For example, two projections are illustrated in the secondisometric view 1006 of the standard block of FIG. 1. In the secondisometric view 1006, each projection corresponds to a cross-shapedprojection, including both a first cross-shaped projection 114 and asecond cross-shaped projection 115. Note that, as described furtherherein, dimensions of the first cross-shaped projection 114 may beconfigured to interconnect with either the first cross-shaped recess 116or the second cross-shaped recess 117 (and similarly for the secondcross-shaped projection 115). Similar to the one or more cross-shapedrecesses, the one or more projections may also be symmetrical along twoaxes (e.g., the second axis 152 and the third axis 154), thus supportingboth linear interconnectivity and transverse interconnectivity.

It should be understood that any suitable number of projections andcorresponding recesses may exist for a particular block type. Forexample, a single projection and a single corresponding recess may existfor a particular block type (e.g., a full-length block type, ahalf-length block type, and/or associated sub-types. For example, in acase of a standard full-length block (e.g., whereby the length of theblock along the second axis 152 is twice the width along the third axis154), less than two (e.g., one) projection/recess pairs may exist (e.g.,corresponding to the first cross-shaped recess 116 and the firstcross-shaped projection 114). In this example, a particular set ofscenarios may be enabled. For example, instead of overlapping the blocksin adjoining courses in a running bond pattern, blocks may be stackeddirectly on top of each other (e.g., in a wall assembly). In anothercase of a standard full-length block, more than two (e.g., four, eight,etc.) projections may protrude beyond the top surface, with a matching(e.g., same) number and corresponding placement of recesses. In someembodiments, the number and/or placement of projections and recesses maybe chosen so that each projection and corresponding recess issymmetrical in four quadrants of a two-dimensional plane (e.g., alongthe second axis 152 and the third axis 154).

As described above, in some embodiments, the standard block typeillustrated by diagram 100 in FIG. 1 may include a pair of sidewallsincluding the first sidewall 110 and the second sidewall 104, which maybe parallel to one another. The pair of sidewalls may be connected bythe top surface 102 and the bottom surface 112. The pair of sidewallsmay have end edges generally perpendicular to the top surface 102 andthe bottom surface 112. The pair of sidewalls may, respectively, have afirst length (e.g., nominally twelve inches). Also, the standard blocktype may include a pair of endwalls including the first endwall 106 andthe second endwall 108, which may also be parallel to each other. Thepair of endwalls may be connected by the top surface 102 and the bottomsurface 112, whereby the pair of endwalls are transverse and joined tothe pair of sidewalls. The pair of endwalls may, respectively, have asecond length. In the case where the standard block type is afull-length (e.g., not a half-length block), the second length of anendwall may be nominally half the first length of a sidewall (e.g.,nominally six inches). In a case where a block type is a half-lengthblock, as described further herein with respect to FIG. 2, a length ofan endwall may nominally match a length of a sidewall. It should beunderstood that, although dimensions (e.g., length and width) may bedescribed nominally, in some cases, as described furthere herein, one ormore dimensions may be marginally adjusted to enable a more efficientmating mechanism between blocks.

In some embodiments, the standard block (and/or other block types) mayinclude at least two trenches. In some embodiments, a trench maycorrespond to a recess that extends into an endwall. For example, asdepicted in both isometric views of FIG. 1, a first trench 120 may bedefined by a recess extending into the first endwall 106. The firsttrench 120 may run along the first axis 150 from a surface of aprojection (e.g., a surface of the first cross-shaped projection 114) toa surface of a recess (e.g., a surface of the first cross-shaped recess116). In some embodiments, a first width of the first trench 120 may bedefined by a start point and an end point along the third axis 154.Similarly, a second trench 121 may be defined by a recess extending intothe second endwall 108. The second trench 121 may also run along thefirst axis 150 from a surface of a projection (e.g., a surface of thesecond cross-shaped projection 115) to a surface of a recess (e.g., asurface of the second cross-shaped recess 117). In some embodiments, asecond width of the second trench may defined by a start point and endpoint along the third axis 154. In some embodiments, the start point ofthe second width may exist between the start point and the end point ofthe first width of the first trench 120 along the third axis 154. Forexample, in one embodiment, the start point and end point of therespective trenches along the third axis 154 may substantially match(e.g., be aligned along the third axis 154). In some embodiments, therespective start point and end point of the trenches may be such thatthe first width of the first trench 120 overlaps (e.g., partially orcompletely overlaps) with the second width of the second trench 121along the third axis 154. In some embodiments, each trench (and/or acontinuous passage in the wall assembly formed in part by the trench)may be otherwise referred to as a “head joint half void.”

In some embodiments, the block may include one or more voids, asdepicted in diagram 100. In some embodiments, a void may be defined inpart by a passage through the block that runs from a surface of aportion of the block to another surface of another portion of the block.For example, as depicted in FIG. 1, a void 118 may be defined by apassage through an interior of the block that runs (e.g., along thefirst axis 150) from a surface of the projection of the block (e.g., ata projection interconnection location) to a surface of the recess of theblock (e.g., at a recess interconnection location). The projectioninterconnection location is visibly illustrated in the second isometricview 1006, where the first cross-shaped projection 114 and the secondcross-shaped projection 115 meet together. Also, the recessinterconnection location is visibly illustrated in the first isometricview 100A, where the first cross-shaped recess 116 and the secondcross-shaped recess 117 meet together. In some embodiments, the void 118may be otherwise referred to as a “head joint full columnar void.” Insome embodiments, the void 118 may exist between the first trench 120and the second trench 121 along the second axis 152. For example, asdescribed above, the void 118 may be located at a midpoint between thetwo trenches (e.g., the projection/recess interconnection location). Athird width of the void 118 may be defined by a start point and an endpoint along the third axis 154. In some embodiments, the start point ofthe third width may exist between respective endpoints of the firstwidth (of the first trench 120) and the second width (of the secondtrench 121) so that the third width overlaps (e.g., partially orcompletely overlaps) with both the first width and the second widthalong the third axis 154.

As described further herein, when endwalls of two blocks (e.g., of thesame or different types) are placed adjacent to each other, therespective trenches of the adjacent endwalls may be aligned such thatthe two trenches form a second void. In some embodiments, the secondvoid (e.g., formed by aligning the two head joint half voids of adjacentblocks) may have similar (e.g., the same) dimensions as the void 118.For example, as depicted in FIG. 1, the void 118 is cylindrically shapedwith a first diameter (e.g., nominally one inch). Similarly, therespective trenches of the two endwalls may also be half-cylindricallyshaped, with a second diameter that matches (e.g., is the same as) thefirst diameter (e.g., nominally one inch). In some embodiments, thediameters may not match. In some embodiments, based in part on the widthof the void 118, the first trench 120, and the second trench 121overlapping along the third axis 154, when one block is stacked on topof (or underneath) at least a portion of another block, a continuouspassage may be formed from a top surface (e.g., a surface of theprojection) of the upper block to a lower surface (e.g., a surface ofthe recess) of the lower block. As a wall assembly is constructed, thecontinuous passage may extend from a base of the wall assembly to a topportion of the wall assembly.

As described above, in some embodiments, the block may include more thanone void. For example, as depicted in FIG. 1, in addition to the void118, a second void 122 and a third void 124 may exist. The second void122 may be defined in part by a second passage (e.g., in addition to thepassage of the void 118) that runs from a surface of the firstcross-shaped projection 114 to a surface of the first cross-shapedrecess 116 (e.g., along the first axis 150). Also, the second void 122may exist between the void 118 and the first trench 120 along the secondaxis 152. For example, the second void 122 may be located at a center ofthe first cross-shaped projection 114. Similarly, third void 124 may bedefined in part by a third passage through the block that runs from asurface of the second cross-shaped projection 115 to a surface of thesecond cross-shaped recess 117 (e.g., along the first axis 150). Also,the second void 122 may exist between the void 118 and the second trench121 along the second axis 152. In some embodiments, the second void 122and the third void 124 may respectively be otherwise referred to as“core columnar voids.” In some embodiments, similar to the first void118, the second void 122 and the third void 124 may be cylindricallyshaped with a diameter (e.g., over 2 inches, for example, 2 and 7/16inches). In some embodiments, the diameter of a core columnar void maybe larger than the diameter of a head joint full columnar void. Forexample, the second void 122 and the third void 124 may be greater thantwice as large as the diameter of the void 118. In some embodiments, acore columnar void may be larger than a head joint full columnar void,at least in part because it may receive different materials and/or servea different purpose. For example, a core columnar void may receivecast-in-place cement grout and reinforcing rods, while the head jointfull columnar void may receive only cementitious grout. Any suitablerelative sizes between the head joint full columnar void and the corecolumnar void may be used to perform embodiments. For example, in someembodiments, the diameter (e.g., or other suitable dimension) of thecore columnar void may be independent of the diameter of the head jointfull columnar void. In one non-limiting example, the diameter of a corecolumnar void may be the same or less than the diameter of the headjoint full columnar void. Also, although embodiments described hereinmay typically describe a block including one or more (e.g., two) corecolumnar voids, embodiments should not be construed to be so limiting.For example, although full-length standard blocks are typicallydescribed herein as having two core columnar voids, in one embodiment, afull-length standard block may contain only one core columnar void ornot have any core columnar voids. In another embodiment, a half-lengthstandard block may not have any core columnar voids.

It should be understood that, although the voids described herein maycorrespond to cylindrically-shaped voids, embodiments should not beconstrued to be so limiting. For example, a square shaped void may beused to perform embodiments described herein, for example, whereby thevoid 118, the second void 122, and/or the third void 124 are squareshaped voids. In some embodiments, the shape of the void 118 (e.g., thehead joint full columnar void) may be the same or different from theshape of the void 122 and/or 124 (e.g., the core columnar voids), or anysuitable combination thereof. In some embodiments, the shape of the void118 may match the shape of the trenches (e.g., the first trench 120 andthe second trench 121). For example, as described herein, the trenchesmay correspond to half-cylindrical shaped recesses, whereby the diameterof a trench (e.g., trench 120 or 121) matches (e.g., substantiallyequals) the diameter of the void 118. In this way, when blocks arestacked in a wall assembly (e.g., either in a transverse interconnectionor a linear interconnection), the respective voids may be aligned so asto form a continuous passage. For example, core columnar voids may bealigned according to matching voids (e.g., the second void 122 and/orthe third void 124), and head joint columnar voids (e.g., void 118) mayalso be aligned according to matching trenches. It should be should beunderstood that the shape and/or dimensions of the voids (e.g., void118) and trenches need not be identical. In any case, when blocks aremated, a continuous passage is formed via the respective trenches and/orvoids being aligned (e.g., partially and/or substantially completelyaligned).

FIG. 2 illustrates cross-sectional views of a representative block,according to some embodiments. The representative block of FIG. 2corresponds to a full-length standard block, which may be similar to theblock illustrated in the first isometric view 100A and the secondisometric view 1006 of FIG. 1. Although the illustration of FIG. 2depicts a full-length standard block, it should be understood that oneor more measurements with respect to various elements of the geometry ofthe full-length standard block may also be applicable to one or more ofthe other block types described herein. For example, the dimensions of aprojection protruding from the top surface of the full-length standardblock may be similar to that of the full-length (or half-length)flat-bottom block. Similarly, the dimensions of a recess extending intothe bottom surface of the full-length standard block may be similar tothat of the a recess of the recessed bottoms of the full-length (orhalf-length) flat-top block and/or the full-length (or half-length)U-shaped block.

In diagram 200 of FIG. 2, four views are depicted: a top view 202 of atop surface of the block, a sidewall view 204 of a sidewall of the bock,a bottom view 206 of a bottom surface of the block, and an endwall view208 of an endwall of the block. For clarity of illustration, and,similar to as described with respect to FIG. 1, elements of thedifferent views may be described in reference to one or more axes of athree-dimensional space 256. The individual axes, as depicted by thethree-dimensional space 256, may be respectively parallel to blockedges, as referenced from the top view 202. Accordingly, the individualaxes include: a first axis 250 (e.g., corresponding to the first axis150 of FIG. 1 that is perpendicular to the ground), a second axis 252(e.g., corresponding to the second axis 152, running parallel to asidewall of the block), and a third axis 254 (e.g., correspond to thethird axis 154, running parallel to an endwall of the block), wherebythe second axis 252 and the third axis 254 form a plane that is parallelto the ground). In this case, the block may be resting on a base surface(e.g., the ground), with the bottom surface of the block on the basesurface.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of the full-length (e.g., standard)block may be such that a length (e.g., length 240, shown in the bottomview 206) of the block (e.g., the length of the top/bottom surface) isapproximately twice a width (e.g., width 238) of the top/bottom surfaceof the block. The height of the block may be any suitable measurementrelative to the length 240 and width 238. For example, in oneembodiment, as described further below, and, using inches as a unit ofmeasurement, the length 240 may be (e.g., nominally) twelve inches, thewidth 238 may be six inches, and the height may be six inches. Inanother embodiment, the length 240 may be twenty-four inches, the width238 may be twelve inches, and the height may be six inches. It should beunderstood that any suitable set of dimensions may be used to performembodiments herein. For example, a length 240 of the block may be anysuitable number within a particular range (e.g., a range of one inch toten feet). Accordingly, the length 240 may be either six inches, seveninches, 1.5 feet, two feet, or any suitable number with the particularrange, and the width 238 may be approximately half the selected length240. In some embodiments, a half-length block may be such that thelength of the half-length block matches the width of the half-lengthblock. For example, a half-length block may have a length of six inchesand a width of six inches.

Turning to the top view 202 of the top surface in further detail, asdescribed herein, in one embodiment, two projections (e.g., a firstprojection and a second projection) may protrude beyond the top surfacealong the first axis 250, whereby each projection is symmetrical alongthe second axis 252 and the third axis 254. Accordingly, the projectionmay be symmetrical in the four quadrants formed by an intersection ofthe second axis 252 and the third axis 254 at an origin point (e.g., acenter of a respective projection). In some embodiments, each projectionmay correspond to a cross-shaped projection. However, embodiments shouldnot be construed to be so limiting, as described herein. For example, asquare-shaped (or other suitable polygonal-shaped) projection may alsobe used. As described herein, by ensuring that the projection (and/orrecess) is symmetric with respect to four quadrants, embodiments enableinterconnecting features of a block to support both linear andtransverse interconnectivity.

In some embodiments, whereby a projection corresponds to a cross-shapedkey, the dimensions of the cross-shaped key (forming a part of a keywayarray on the top surface) may be determined to be proportionate to thedimensions of the block (e.g., length 240 and width 238). Using theexample above, whereby the block top/bottom surface length is nominallytwelve inches and the block top/bottom surface width is nominally sixinches, a length 210 of a base of the first cross-shaped projection maybe 2½ inches along the third axis 254. A length 212 of an upper surfaceof the first cross-shaped projection may be two inches along the thirdaxis 254. In some embodiments, a slightly smaller length of 1 15/16inches may be utilized as the length 212, to allow for slightadjustments of the positioning of the mated blocks during the initialerection of a wall assembly. This slightly smaller length may similarlybe applied to other dimensions of other elements, as described furtherbelow. Also, note that the length 210 may be longer than the length 212,to allow for an angled mating between a projection and a recess, whichmay enable a more efficient mating process. For example, as describedfurther below and depicted by the end view 208 of FIG. 2, a projectionmay protrude from the top surface of the block to a certain height(e.g., a length 242 along the first axis 250) via an inclined plane. Theinclined plane may be formed based in part on the length 210 beinggreater than the length 212, and similarly, with respect to recesses ofthe block. In this way, embodiments may enable a more efficient matingprocess with other blocks.

Similar to as described regarding the first cross-shaped projection, thesecond cross-shaped projection (to the right of the first cross-shapedprojection in diagram 200) may also have a length 211 of a base of theprojection that corresponds to 2.5 inches along the second axis 252. Alength 213 of an upper surface of the first cross-shaped projection maybe 2 inches (or 1 15/16 inches). Note that the length 210 of the base ofthe first cross-shaped projection may match the length 211 of the secondcross-shaped projection, while the length 212 of the first cross-shapedprojection may match the length 213 of the second cross-shapedprojection. In this way, embodiments may further enable both transverseand linear interconnectivity in a wall assembly.

As described herein, the full-length standard block also may contain oneor more voids and trenches. For example, as depicted in the top view202, a void 214 may exist (e.g., a core columnar void), whereby the void214 is defined in part by a passage through the block (e.g., along thefirst axis 250) that runs from the top surface (shown by the top view202) to the bottom surface (shown by the bottom view 206). In someembodiments, whereby the passage may be cylindrically shaped, a diameterof the core columnar void 214 may be approximately 2 7/16 inches. Itshould be understood that this is only one example diameter. Anysuitable diameter (and/or dimension, depending on the polygonal shape ofthe void) may be used, for example, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 5 inches, etc.This may depend, for example, on the other relative dimensions of theblock. In some embodiments, the core columnar void 214 may exist at acenter of a top surface of a projection. For example, suppose that anorigin of the second axis 252 and the third axis 254 is at a center ofthe surface of a projection. In this example, a center of the void 214may be at the origin. However, embodiments should not be construed to beso limiting. In one example, instead of the center of the core columnarvoid 214 existing at the origin, the core columnar void 214 may existslightly above (e.g., 1/16, 2/16, or 3/16 inch), below, to the left, orto the right of the origin. In any case, the core columnar void may belocated such that, when the block is mated with another block (e.g.,above or below the block), the core columnar void 214 may be alignedwith the other block so as to form a continuous passage. In someembodiments, both core columnar voids of the block may have similar(e.g., the same) dimensions, thus supporting both linear and transverseinterconnectivity.

In some embodiments, another void 218 may exist, which may correspond toa head joint full columnar void, as described herein. In someembodiments, the void 218 may be defined in part by a passage that runsthrough the block along the first axis 250. For example, the twoprojections may be interconnected at a projection interconnectionlocation (e.g., visualized by the center vertical dotted line of the topview 202). The void 218 may run from a surface of the projectioninterconnection location to a surface of a recess interconnectionlocation (discussed below). In some embodiments, the void 218 may be oneinch in diameter. However, embodiments should not be construed to be solimiting. For example, the diameter of the void 218 may be ½ inch, 1½inches, 2 inches, or 3 inches, 1 foot, etc., depending, on thedimensions of the block and the requirements for the wall assembly.Similar to the void 214, it should be understood that, although the void218 is depicted as being cylindrically shaped, embodiments should not beconstrued to be so limited. For example, a square or other suitablepolygonal shape may be used.

In some embodiments, two trenches (a first trench and second trench) mayexist on both endwalls of the block. For example, a first trench 216 isdepicted as extending into the endwall on the right side of the block(e.g., via the top view 202). In some embodiments, the relativepositions of the void 218 and the two trenches (e.g., including thefirst trench 216) may be such that the void 218 exists between the firsttrench 216 and the second trench along the second axis 252. For example,the void 218 may be at a center of the block, to support linear andtransverse interconnectivity. However, in some embodiments, the void 218may be positioned to the left or right of the center, whereby acontinuous passage is still formed when the block is mated with anotherblock above or below. In some embodiments, the first trench 216 may havea similar (e.g. same) dimension as the void 218. For example, the firsttrench 216 may correspond to a half-cylindrically shaped trench, wherebythe diameter of the half-cylinder is the same as the diameter of thevoid 218. However, embodiments should not be construed to be solimiting. For example, a first width of the first trench 216 may bedefined by a start point and an endpoint along the third axis 254. Also,a second width of the second trench may be defined by a start point andan end point along the third axis 254, whereby the start point of thesecond width exists between the start point and the end point of thefirst width along the third axis 254. Meanwhile, a width (e.g.,diameter) of the void 218 may be defined by a start point and an endpoint along the third axis 254. The start point of the width of the void218 may exist between respective endpoints of a first width (e.g.,diameter) of the first trench 216 and a second width (e.g., diameter) ofthe second trench, so that the width of the void 218 overlaps with boththe first width and the second width along the third axis 254.

Turning to the sidewall view 204 in further detail, the sidewall view204 may depict a view of a first sidewall of a pair of sidewalls,including the first sidewall and a second sidewall that are parallel toone another. The pair of sidewalls may be connected by the top surface(shown by the top view 202) and the bottom surface (shown by the bottomview 206), whereby the pair of sidewalls (e.g., generally planar) haveend edges generally perpendicular to the top surface and the bottomsurface. As depicted, the first sidewall may have a length that matchesthe length 640 (e.g., twelve inches). The length may be divided intofour sub-lengths, including sub-length 220, sub-length 222, sub-length224, and sub-length 226. In some embodiments, the sub-lengths may beevenly divided into three-inch increments. In some embodiments, thelength of the overall sidewall may be slightly less than twelve inches(e.g., 11 30/32 inches). In this case, two of the sub-lengths (e.g.,sub-length 220 and sub-length 226) may each be 2 31/32 inches, while theother two sub-lengths may respectively be three inches. Note that, asvisualized by the vertical dotted lines that divide each sub-length andrun through the top surface, the sidewall, and the bottom surface, arelative position of the elements of the block may be determined.

Turning to the bottom view 206, elements of the bottom surface aredepicted that may be associated with elements of the top surface. Forexample, in one embodiment, two recesses (e.g., a first recess and asecond recess) may extend into the bottom surface along the first axis250. Similar to the projections, each recess may also be symmetricalalong the second axis 252 and the third axis 254 (e.g., symmetrical infour quadrants). Also, while the two recesses of the bottom surface aredepicted as being cross-shaped recesses, embodiments should not beconstrued to be so limiting. Generally, a recess may be shaped such thatthe recess may be able to be mated with a projection.

In some embodiments, whereby a recess corresponds to a cross-shapedrecess (e.g., a key recess), the dimensions of the cross-shaped recessmay be determined to be proportional to the dimensions of the block.Again, using the example above, whereby the block top/bottom surfacelength 240 is nominally twelve inches and the block top/bottom surfacewidth 238 is nominally six inches, a length 230 of a base of the firstcross-shaped recess (e.g., coplanar with the bottom surface) may be 2⅝inches along the third axis 254. A length 232 of an upper surface of thefirst cross-shaped projection may be 2 1/16 inches along the third axis254. Similar to the projection above, note that the length 230 is longerthan the length 232, to allow for an angled mating between a projectionand a recess, which may enable a more efficient mating. Note also thatthe length 210 of the base of the projection (e.g., 2½ inches) may beslightly less than the length 230 of the base of recess (e.g., 2⅝inches) along the third axis 254 (and similar, comparing the length 212to the length 232). This may also allow for adjustments in positioningof the blocks during erection of a vertical structure.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of a second cross-shaped recess maybe similar to (e.g., be the same as) the first cross-shaped recess. Forexample, a length 231 of a base of the second cross-shaped recess(coplanar with the bottom surface) may be, for example, 2⅝ inches alongthe second axis 252. A length 233 of an upper surface of the secondcross-shaped recess may be, for example, 2 1/16 inches. In this way,embodiments may further enable both transverse and linearinterconnectivity in a wall assembly.

In some embodiments, there may be a gap between the two recesses (andprojections) along the length 240 of the block. For example, as depictedby the bottom view 206, a first gap along the second axis 252 between abase of the first recess and the base of the second recess (e.g., bothcoplanar with the bottom surface) may have a length 234 of, for example,3 15/16 inches. Also, a second gap along the second axis 252 between asurface of the first recess and a surface of the second recess may havea length 236 of, for example, 3⅜ inches. Note again that the length 234is longer than the length 236, which may allow for an angled matingbetween a projection and a recess.

Turning to the endwall view 208 in further detail, the endwall view 208may depict a view of a first endwall of a pair of endwalls, including afirst endwall and a second endwall that are parallel to one another. Thepair of endwalls may be connected by the top surface and the bottomsurface, whereby the pair of endwalls are transverse and joined to thepair of sidewalls, and whereby the pair of endwalls respectively have alength 251 along the third axis 254 that is nominally half the length240 of the block. For example, assuming that the length 240 correspondsnominally to twelve inches (e.g. practically 11 15/16 inches), thelength 251 may correspond to nominally six inches. For example, dividingthe length 251 into two parts, a first length 248 may be 2 63/64 inches,and a second length 249 may be 2 63/64 inches. Additionally, a length242 may measure the length of a protrusion along the first axis 250,which may correspond to approximately half an inch. Similarly, a length244 may measure the length of a recess along the first axis 250, whichmay also correspond to approximately half an inch. Also, a trench thatextends into the endwall is depicted in the endwall view 208. In thisdepiction, a radius 246 of the half-cylindrical trench may beapproximately one-half inch (i.e., thus, forming a one-inch diameter).It should be understood that the above set of dimensions providemeasurements for one possible embodiment for block that has a length 240of approximately twelve inches (e.g., 11 15/16 inches), and a width 238of approximately six inches (e.g., 5 31/32 inches). However, asdescribed above, any suitable dimension(s) may be used that areproportional other dimensions of the block, such that both linear andtransverse interconnectivity are realized. For example, for a givenlength 240 and/or width 238 selected from a range of possible values (asdescribed herein), a proportional set of dimensions (e.g., length 210,length 212, length 211, length 220, length 246, etc.) may be selected.For example, instead of being 2.5 inches, the length 210 of the base ofthe projection may be 1 inch, 5 inches, 10 inches, or any suitable valuewithin a range (e.g., a half-inch to one foot) that is proportional tothe length 240 and width 238 of the block.

FIG. 3 illustrates various cross-sectional views of a portion of a blockassembly, according to some embodiments. In the diagram 300 of FIG. 3,the block assembly may correspond to a portion of a wall assembly (e.g.,of a building). The portion includes a half-length block 302, afull-length standard type block 304, a full-length standard block 306,and a full-length standard block 308. As described further herein,embodiments of the block configurations may enable blocks to beinterconnected, to enable more efficient assembly of a wall andefficiently insulate the wall to protect against natural environmentalelements.

Turning to the elements and various interconnections illustrated bydiagram 300 in further detail, the half-length block 302 may be stackedon top of the full-length standard block 306, whereby a first endwall ofthe half-length block 302 is coplanar with a first endwall of thefull-length standard block 306. A second endwall of the half-lengthblock 302 may be adjacent to a first endwall of the full-length standardblock 304. Also, the second endwall of the half-length block 302 may belocated at a midpoint of the length of the top surface of the lowerfull-length standard block 306. Meanwhile, the full-length standardblock 304 may be interconnected (e.g., mated) with both the full-lengthstandard block 306 and 308 in a running bond application. In thisembodiment, based at least in part on the endwall of the half-lengthblock 302 being coplanar with the endwall of the full-length standardblock 306, a running bond application of courses may be supported, whilealso enabling end blocks of each course to have endwalls that arecoplanar with an adjacent wall. It should be understood that anysuitable combination of block types may be interconnected, based on theinterconnecting features described herein. For example, while the lowerblocks (e.g., the full-length standard blocks 306 and 308) correspond tostandard blocks in this example, in another embodiment, they may insteadcorrespond to full-length flat-bottom blocks at the base of a wallassembly.

In some embodiments, as described herein, the projections and recessesof each block may enable the block to be mated with one or more otherblocks. For example, a recess 312 of the full-length standard block 304may be mated with a projection 322 of the full-length standard block306. Note that, in some embodiments, a running bond application may beenabled based in part on each full-length block having at least twoprojections and corresponding recesses. For example, the recess 312 maycorrespond to a first recess of the full-length standard block 304,which is mated with the projection 322 (e.g., one of two projections ofthe full-length standard block 306). The full-length standard block 304may also have another recess that is mated to a projection of thefull-length standard block 308, as depicted in FIG. 3, thus supportinginterconnections in a running bond application. It should be understoodthat, in some embodiments, the blocks can be assembled in a stackedassembly that is not a running bond assembly, depending on therequirements of the block assembly.

As described herein, trenches and voids of the different blocks ofdiagram 300 may also support various interconnections between the blocksin the stacked assembly. For example, a first void 314 may be formedbased on an alignment between a trench of the half-length block 302 andanother trench of the full-length standard block 304. The first void 314may be further aligned with a void of the lower full-length standardblock 306 (e.g., existing at a midpoint of the block and running throughthe block, similar to the void 118 of FIG. 1), thus creating acontinuous vertical passage. Similarly, a second void 318 may run from asurface of a projection interconnection location (e.g., where the twocross-shaped projections connect) through the full-length standard block304. This second void 318 may further be vertically aligned with anothervoid that is formed based on two adjacent trenches of endwalls beingaligned (e.g., between full-length standard block 306 and 308), similarto as described with respect to the first void 314. Accordingly, anothercontinuous vertical passage may be created. In this example, both thefirst void 314 and the second void 318, respectively, may form portionsof head joint columnar voids that run from a base of the block assemblyto a top portion of the wall assembly. A trench 316 of the full-lengthstandard block 304 and a void of the full-length standard block 308 mayalso be similarly used to form other continuous passages (e.g., headjoint full columnar voids) along different points of the wall assembly.Upon erection of the wall assembly, these head joint full columnar voidsmay be filled with cementitious grout, enabling the blocks to be further(e.g., firmly, tightly) locked into place (e.g., beyond the initiallocking mechanism enabled by the mating recesses and projections). Thesesealed head joints may also serve to prevent natural elements frompenetrating joints between the blocks. In this way, the trenches andvoids of each block also serve as interconnection features of theblocks. It should be understood that the mating of projections andrecesses between blocks may enable voids and/or trenches of the blocksto be efficiently aligned, so as to create multiple continuous passages.

Similarly, core columnar voids may also be aligned between the differentblocks to form a continuous vertical passage from the base of theassembly to a top portion of the assembly. As a representative example,a void 320 (e.g., a core columnar void) of the full-length standardblock 304 may be aligned with another void of the same type (e.g.,another core columnar void of the full-length standard block 308) toform a portion of a continuous passage. This continuous passage maylater may receive cast-in-place cement grout and reinforcing rods, thusproviding structural support to bear structure loads.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of interconnecting block types, accordingto some embodiments. In the diagram 400 of FIG. 4, a full-length blocktype and a half-length block type are illustrated. Within thefull-length block type, four sub-types of blocks are illustrated.Similarly, within the half-length block type, four correspondingsub-types of blocks are illustrated.

Turning to the full-length block type in further detail, the foursub-types of blocks include: a standard block type 402, a flat-top blocktype 406, a U-shaped block type 410, and a flat-bottom block type 414.The standard block type 402 may include at least one projection thatprotrudes beyond a top surface of the block, and at least one recessthat extends into a bottom surface of the block. In the example of FIG.4, the standard block type 402 includes two cross-shaped projectionsthat are interconnected, and two cross-shaped recesses that are alsointerconnected. The standard block type 402 may also include a firsttrench and a second trench, one at each endwall, and at least one void.For example, as described herein, the standard block type 402 mayinclude a void between the two trenches (e.g., at a midpoint of theblock). The standard block type 402 may also include two additionalvoids (e.g., core columnar voids). A first core columnar void may belocated between first trench and the void at the midpoint of the block,while a second core columnar void may be located between the secondtrench and the void at the midpoint of the block. The flat-top blocktype 406 is typically used at the top of a wall assembly, and may allowfor a uniform flat surface on which a structural cast-in-place concretebeam may be placed (or, alternatively, a beam made of other suitablematerials). The flat-top block type 406 also includes a recessed bottom,for example, including two cross-shaped recesses (e.g., similar to thestandard block type 402 bottom). The recessed bottom may be configuredto mate with lower courses (e.g., of standard type blocks). The U-shapedblock type 410 may also be used at the top of a wall assembly, and mayprovide a top cavity in which cast-in-place concrete materials and/orreinforcement may be placed to create a bond beam (e.g., forming astructural cast-in-place bond beam). The U-shaped block type 410 mayalso include a recessed bottom that is configured to mate with a lowerblock. The flat-bottom block type 414 may have a uniform flat surface onthe bottom of the block, and may provide a flat-bottom full seat bearingat the base of a wall assembly. The flat-bottom block type 414 may alsoinclude a top surface with one or more projections that are configuredto mate with recesses of one or more blocks (e.g., of a standard blocktype). It should be understood that, as depicted in FIG. 4, the flat-topblock type 406, the U-shaped block type 410, and the flat-bottom blocktype 414 may have a similar (e.g., same) number and/or placement oftrenches and voids as the standard block type 402. In this way, theblocks may be configured with interconnecting features, so that uponbeing mated together, the form a continuous passage from the base of awall assembly to the top block of a wall assembly.

Turning to the half-length block type in further detail, the foursub-types of blocks include: a half-length standard block type 404, ahalf-length flat-top block type 408, a half-length U-shaped block type412, and a half-length flat-bottom block type 416. In some embodiments,the half-length block type may be half the length of the standard blocktype. Accordingly, and for example, the half-length standard block type404 may be half the length of the standard block type 402. In someembodiments, the half-length block type may include at least twotrenches on each endwall, similar to the trenches of the correspondingfull-length block type. In some embodiments, the half-length block typemay include a void (e.g., similar to a core columnar void of afull-length block) that runs through the block, as illustrated in FIG.4. In some embodiments, the half-length block type may not include ahead joint full columnar void. In some embodiments, the half-lengthblock type may include half the number of projections and/orcorresponding recesses. For example, the half-length standard block type404 may include only one projection and one recess (e.g., compared withthe two projections and two recesses of the standard block type 402).Also, in some embodiments, the half-length block type may only includehalf the number of core columnar voids of the full-length block type(e.g., one core columnar void). In some embodiments, other features ofrespective sub-types of the half-length block type may be similar tocorresponding sub-types of the full-length block type. For example, thehalf-length standard block type 404 may have a top surface with aprojection and a bottom surface with a recess, while the half-lengthflat-top block type 408 may have a uniform flat-top surface with arecessed bottom (e.g., similar to the full-length block type 406).

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of interconnecting block types in a wallassembly, according to some embodiments. In diagram 500 of FIG. 5, threedifferent views (e.g., different viewpoint angles) of a representativewall assembly are depicted. The wall assembly depicted includes arepresentative sample of different block types illustrated in FIG. 4,which are assembled together via interconnecting features of the blocks.In diagram 500, the three views include a first endwall view 502 of thewall assembly, a sidewall view 504 of the wall assembly, and a secondendwall view 506 of the wall assembly.

A base course of the wall assembly may include a course of blocks, witha base block 507 being a representative block of the base course. Inthis example, the base block 507 is a flat-bottom block type (e.g.,full-length). A base block 508 of the sidewall view 504 may correspondto the same block as base block 507, but seen from a sidewallperspective. A base block 510 of the second endwall view 506 may bepositioned at an opposite end of the wall from the base block 507. Thebase block 510 may also be a flat-bottom block type (e.g., full-length).It should be understood that, any suitable combination and/or orderingof full-length and half-length blocks may be used to form a course ofblocks.

Turning to intermediate courses of the wall assembly, a firsthalf-length standard block 512 of a second course of the sidewall view504 may be interconnected above the lower base block 508. Note that arecess of the first half-length standard block 512 may interconnect withone of the projections of the base block 508. On the opposite end of thesecond course, as depicted by the second endwall view 506, a secondhalf-length standard block 514 may be interconnected above another lowerbase block. Accordingly, in this example, the second course may have twohalf-length standard block types that bookend the second course. In athird course of the wall assembly, a standard block 516 is depicted,which may be similar to the standard block 402 of FIG. 4. Asillustrated, the representative standard block 516 may interconnect withother standard blocks within the same course as well as the coursesabove and/or below the same course.

Turning to the top course of blocks of the wall assembly, a full-lengthU-shaped block 518 is depicted in the first endwall view 502 as an endblock. The full-length U-shaped view 518 may correspond to U-shapedblock 310 of FIG. 3. Another full-length U-shaped block 520 of thesecond endwall view 506 may correspond to the same U-shaped block 518,seen from a different viewpoint, and similarly, with respect to afull-length U-shaped block 522 of the sidewall view 504.

A full-length flat-top block 524 may also be positioned in the topcourse of blocks at an opposite end from the full-length U-shaped block518, as depicted in the first endwall view 502. A full-length flat-topblock 526 of the second endwall view 506 and a full-length flat-topblock 528 of the sidewall view may each provide different perspectivesof the same block. Note that, as described herein, the full-lengthflat-top block 528 contains three voids: a first void 530 (e.g., a headjoint full columnar void), a second void 532 (e.g., a core columnarvoid), and a third void 534 (e.g., another core columnar void). Thefull-length flat-top block 528 also contains two trenches extending intoeach of the respective endwalls of the block 528. Note that each ofthese voids may be aligned with lower blocks to form a continuouspassage extending vertically through the length of the wall assembly.Additionally, in some embodiments, one or both of the trenches alignwith another adjacent trench of another block to form a void, which inturn forms a portion of a continuous passage. A representative exampleis depicted by voids 536 and 538 of the first endwall view 502, whichare respectively formed from adjacent trenches of endwalls of U-shapedblocks on the top course. It should be understood that the illustrationof different block types and block positions of diagram 500 isrepresentative of one possible wall assembly. Any suitable arrangementof block types and block positions to form interconnections may beenvisioned by embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example of interconnecting blocks in a wallassembly, according to some embodiments. In the diagram 600 of FIG. 6,two wall assemblies interconnect to form a ninety degree turn, wherebyinterconnecting features of the block types may enable the blocks toboth transversely and linearly interconnect with each other. Althoughthe illustration of FIG. 6 depicts as ninety-degree wall turn, it shouldbe understood that similar features may also be applicable to a wallintersection (e.g., a ninety degree wall intersection).

Turning to diagram 600 in further detail, a first full-length flat-topblock 602 may be positioned as an end block at the ninety degree turn ofthe wall assembly. The block 602 may be stacked above a lowerfull-length standard block 604 that is positioned transverse to theblock 602, such that an endwall of the block 604 is coplanar with asidewall of the block 602. Note that, based in part on theinterconnecting features of the block types, the block 602 maytransversely interconnect with block 604 while another secondfull-length flat-top block 606 linearly interconnects with the lowerblock 604. Note that other blocks (e.g., standard intermediate blocks,flat-top blocks, etc.) of the wall assembly may also be interconnected(e.g., linearly interconnected or transversely interconnected), similarto as described herein (e.g., with respect to FIG. 5). In the diagram600 the blocks are depicted as being stacked in a running bondapplication. However, in another embodiment, the blocks may bepositioned in a stacked assembly.

As depicted in diagram 600, embodiments may enable continuous passagesto be formed not only for courses of blocks that are linearlyinterconnected, but also for transverse stacking of blocks. For example,consider that block 602 includes at least a first void 608 (e.g., a corecolumnar void) and a second void 610 (e.g., a head joint full columnarvoid). As described herein, because of the way the blocks are configuredto mate (e.g., between block 602 and block 604), a continuous passagemay be formed from a surface of the flat-top block 602 to a base blockof the wall assembly. Similarly, the second void 610 may also form aportion of a continuous passage from a surface of the flat-top block 602to a base block of the wall assembly. In some embodiments, thecontinuous passage may have a consistent shape (e.g., cylindrical,square) throughout the passage. In some embodiments, the continuouspassage may have varying shapes (e.g., varying perimeters, diameters,etc.) throughout the passage. In some embodiments, after wall isassembled, one or more voids may be further crafted (e.g., manuallyshaped). For example, a trench may be manually formed within a sidewallof block 602 in order to align with a trench at endwall of the block 606to form a head joint full columnar void. In some embodiments, a fullvoid may be formed by aligning trenches of adjacent endwalls of blocks.For example, a third void 612 may be formed by aligning a trench of anendwall of block 602 with another trench of an endwall of the block thatis linearly interconnected with the block 602 in the same top course.The third void 612 may form a portion of another continuous passage(e.g., a head joint full columnar void) from the top surface of the wallto the base of the wall.

As described herein and further depicted in diagram 600, theinterconnecting features of the blocks may enable the wall to beefficiently (e.g., rapidly) assembled and reinforced. For example, theprojections and recesses of the blocks may enable the blocks to beefficiently stacked such that voids and trenches of the block arealigned to form continuous columnar cavities. Subsequent to assemblingthe wall, the columnar cavities may be filled with one or morematerials. For example, the first void 608 may correspond to a portionof a core columnar void. The core columnar void cavity may be filledwith cast-in-place cement grout and reinforcing rods (e.g., a verticalreinforcing steel rod 614) that run along the continuous passage to thebase of the wall assembly. Similar vertical reinforcing steel rods maybe placed in other core columnar void passages to reinforce the wall inany suitable arrangement (e.g., inserting a rod in staggered selectedvertical core columns within the wall assembly). The steel rods mayextend into a horizontal cast-in-place bond beam 616 of reinforcingsteel at the top of the wall. Additionally, a cast-in-place concretebond beam 618 (cut away for clarity in FIG. 6) may further reinforce thewall assembly. In some embodiments, a surface bonding cement may beadditionally applied at the exterior wall surface to add horizontalreinforcing to the wall assembly in the form of a planar membranecoating. The coating also protects the wall fabric from exposure to thenatural environmental elements.

Embodiments of block configurations described herein thereby provide amechanism for not only efficiently assembling a wall assembly, but alsofor subsequently efficiently and securely reinforcing and insulating thewall assembly. For example, the post-erection coating at the exteriorsurface provides horizontal reinforcing, while the cast-in-placeconcrete bond beam at the top may horizontally distribute loadsthroughout the wall assembly. Additionally, the above-described steelrods may correspond to tensioning devices that include high-tensilethreaded steel rods, case hardened washers with nuts, and rod shroudjackets that separate the rods from the cementitious material thatencapsulate the rods. The rods may be anchored in the foundation belowand pass through the bond beam at the top of the wall assembly. The nutsmay be torqued to specific limits to impose tension on the rods andthereby impose a down force load at the top of the bond beam. This downforce compression by the tensioning device may effectively simulate agravity load on the wall below. It should be understood that thesefeatures may be enabled based at least in part on the interconnectingfeatures of the blocks, which enable the various cavities to be filledwith cementitious material.

The invention has now been described in detail for the purposes ofclarity and understanding. However, those skilled in the art willappreciate that certain changes and modifications may be practicedwithin the scope of the appended claims. It is to be understood that anyworkable combination of the features and capabilities disclosed above inthe various embodiments is also considered to be disclosed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A block for use in mortarless wall construction,comprising: a top surface and a bottom surface that are parallel to oneanother; a projection that protrudes beyond the top surface along afirst axis and is symmetrical along a second axis and a third axis; arecess that extends into the bottom surface along the first axis andalso is symmetrical along the second axis and the third axis; a pair ofsidewalls including a first sidewall and a second sidewall that areparallel to one another, wherein the pair of sidewalls are connected bythe top surface and bottom surface, wherein the pair of sidewalls haveend edges generally perpendicular to the top surface and the bottomsurface, and wherein the pair of sidewalls respectively have a firstlength; a pair of endwalls including a first endwall and a secondendwall that are parallel to one another, wherein the pair of endwallsare connected by the top surface and the bottom surface, wherein thepair of endwalls are transverse and joined to the pair of sidewalls, andwherein the pair of endwalls respectively have a second length that issubstantially half the first length; a first trench that is defined by asecond recess extending into the first endwall, wherein the first trenchruns along the first axis from a surface of the projection to a surfaceof the recess, and wherein a first width of the first trench is definedby a start point and an end point along the third axis; a second trenchthat is defined by a second recess extending into the second endwall,wherein the second trench runs from a surface of the projection to thesurface of the recess, and wherein a second width of the second trenchis defined by a start point and end point along the third axis, whereinthe start point of the second width exists between the start point andthe end point of the first width along the third axis; and a void thatis defined in part by a passage through the block that runs from asurface of the projection to a surface of the recess along the firstaxis, wherein the void exists between the first trench and the secondtrench along the second axis, wherein a third width of the void isdefined by a start point and an end point along the third axis, andwherein the start point of the third width exists between respectiveendpoints of the first width and the second width so that the thirdwidth overlaps with both the first width and the second width along thethird axis.
 2. The block of claim 1, wherein the block is a first upperblock, wherein the first upper block is placed over a lower block of asame type, wherein respective sidewalls of the lower block and the firstupper block are substantially coplanar, wherein an endwall of the firstupper block is at a midpoint of the lower block along the second axis,and wherein a portion of the projection of the lower block interconnectswith a portion of the recess of the first upper block.
 3. The block ofclaim 2, wherein an endwall of a second upper block of the same type isadjacent to the endwall of the first upper block, wherein respectivetrenches of adjacent endwalls of the first upper block and the secondupper block align to form a second void, and wherein the second void isaligned with a void of the lower block to form a continuous passagealong the first axis extending from at least the top surface of thesecond upper block to at least a bottom surface of the lower block. 4.The block of claim 1, wherein the projection corresponds to twocross-shaped projections that are interconnected at a projectioninterconnection location between the first trench and the second trenchalong the second axis, and wherein the recess corresponds to twocross-shaped recesses that are interconnected at a recessinterconnection location between the first trench and the second trenchalong the second axis.
 5. The block of claim 4, wherein the passage ofthe void runs along the first axis from a surface of the projectioninterconnection location to a surface of the recess interconnectionlocation.
 6. The block of claim 1, further comprising: a second voidthat is defined in part by a second passage through the block that runsfrom a surface of the projection to a surface of the recess along thefirst axis, wherein the second void exists between the void and thefirst trench along the second axis; and a third void that is defined inpart by a third passage through the block that runs from a surface ofthe projection to a surface of the recess along the first axis, whereinthe third void exists between the void and the second trench along thesecond axis.
 7. The block of claim 6, wherein the passage of the voidand the passage of the second void are respectively cylindricallyshaped.
 8. The block of claim 6, wherein the block is an upper block,wherein the upper block is interconnected with a lower block of a sametype, wherein sidewalls of the upper block and the lower block aresubstantially coplanar, wherein an endwall of the upper block is at amidpoint of the lower block along the second axis, and wherein thesecond void of the upper block is aligned with a third void of the lowerblock to form a continuous passage extending from the top surface of theupper block to a bottom surface of the lower block along the first axis.9. The block of claim 6, wherein the block is an upper block, whereinthe upper block is interconnected with a lower block of a same type,wherein respective sidewalls of the lower block and the upper block aretransverse to each other, wherein an endwall of the upper block iscoplanar to a sidewall of the lower block, and wherein the second voidof the block is aligned with a third void of the lower block to form acontinuous passage extending from the top surface of the upper block toa bottom surface of the lower block along the first axis.
 10. The blockof claim 1, wherein the projection is configured to interconnect with arecess of a second block of a same type when the block and the secondblock are interconnected in either a linearly stacked assembly or atransversely stacked assembly, the interconnection based at least inpart on the projection and the recess, respectively, being symmetricalalong the second axis and the third axis.
 11. The block of claim 1,comprising a cementitious material.
 12. A block, comprising: a topsurface and a bottom surface that are parallel to one another; aprojection that protrudes beyond the top surface along a first axis; arecess that extends into the bottom surface along the first axis; a pairof sidewalls including a first sidewall and a second sidewall that areparallel to one another, wherein the pair of sidewalls are connected bythe top surface and bottom surface, and wherein the pair of sidewallshave end edges generally perpendicular to the top surface and the bottomsurface; a pair of endwalls including a first endwall and a secondendwall that are parallel to one another, wherein the pair of endwallsare connected by the top surface and the bottom surface, and wherein thepair of endwalls are transverse and joined to the pair of sidewalls; afirst trench that is defined by a second recess extending into the firstendwall, wherein the first trench runs along the first axis from asurface of the projection to a surface of the recess, and wherein afirst width of the first trench is defined by a start point and an endpoint along a second axis; a second trench that is defined by a secondrecess extending into the second endwall, wherein the second trench runsfrom a surface of the projection to the surface of the recess, andwherein a second width of the second trench is defined by a start pointand end point along the second axis, wherein the start point of thesecond width exists between the start point and the end point of thefirst width along the second axis; and a void that is defined in part bya passage through the block that runs from a surface of the projectionto a surface of the recess along the first axis, wherein the void existsbetween the first trench and the second trench along a third axis,wherein a third width of the void is defined by a start point and an endpoint along the second axis, and wherein the start point of the thirdwidth exists between respective endpoints of the first width and thesecond width so that the third width overlaps with both the first widthand the second width along the second axis.
 13. The block of claim 12,wherein the projection is symmetrical along a second axis and the recessis also symmetrical along the second axis and the third axis.
 14. Theblock of claim 12, wherein the pair of sidewalls respectively have afirst length, and wherein the pair of endwalls respectively have asecond length that is substantially half the first length.
 15. The blockof claim 12, wherein the block is included in a stacked assembly ofblocks of a same type, and wherein the first trench of the block forms aportion of a continuous passage that extends along the first axis froman upper surface to a lower surface of the stacked assembly of blocks.16. The block of claim 12, wherein the block is configured tointerconnect with another block of a different type, the different typehaving a length that is substantially half a length of a type of theblock.
 17. A block, comprising: a top surface and a bottom surface thatare parallel to one another; a projection that protrudes beyond the topsurface along a first axis and is symmetrical along a second axis and athird axis; a recess that extends into the bottom surface along thefirst axis and also is symmetrical along the second axis and the thirdaxis; a pair of sidewalls including a first sidewall and a secondsidewall that are parallel to one another, wherein the pair of sidewallsare connected by the top surface and bottom surface, wherein the pair ofsidewalls have end edges generally perpendicular to the top surface andthe bottom surface, and wherein the pair of sidewalls respectively havea first length; a pair of endwalls including a first endwall and asecond endwall that are parallel to one another, wherein the pair ofendwalls are connected by the top surface and the bottom surface,wherein the pair of endwalls are transverse and joined to the pair ofsidewalls, and wherein the pair of endwalls respectively have a secondlength that is substantially half the first length; a pair of trenchesincluding a first trench and a second trench that are respectivelydefined by a recess extending into an endwall of the pair of endwalls,wherein the pair of trenches both run along the first axis from asurface of the projection to a surface of the recess, and wherein afirst width of the first trench overlaps with a second width of thesecond trench along the third axis.
 18. The block of claim 17, furthercomprising: a void that is defined in part by a passage through theblock that runs from a surface of the projection to a surface of therecess along the first axis, wherein the void exists between the firsttrench and the second trench along the second axis, wherein a thirdwidth of the void is defined by a start point and an end point along thethird axis, and wherein the start point of the third width existsbetween respective endpoints of the first width and the second width sothat the third width overlaps with both the first width and the secondwidth along the third axis.
 19. The block of claim 18, furthercomprising: a second void that is defined in part by a second passagethrough the block that runs from a surface of the projection to asurface of the recess along the first axis, wherein the second voidexists between the void and the first trench along the second axis; anda third void that is defined in part by a third passage through theblock that runs from a surface of the projection to a surface of therecess along the first axis, wherein the third void exists between thevoid and the second trench along the second axis.
 20. The block of claim17, wherein the block is a lower block that is interconnected with anupper block of a different type, the different type defined at least inpart by (1) having a recess that is configured to interconnect with theprojection of the lower block, and (2) having either a substantiallyflat-top surface or a U-shaped contour.